The California Coastal Commission met in Newport Beach City Council chambers last week and had a few noteworthy local items on the agenda, including an amendment to the city’s Local Coastal Program. The Commission 7-3 in approval of the amendment with the CCC staff modifications. Schmitz and Associates assisted the City in this process, culminating in approval that allows state-required Coastal Development Permits to be approved by the City, rather than submitting plans to the CCC. This is a huge victory for all parties involved and we congratulate the City in their efforts to provide intelligent coastal planning, while integrating the simple efficiencies inherent to a local program.